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Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire

Biggest complaint? No moment where we get to say, “SCREW YOU RITA SKEETER!” and the incredibly disappointing maze (final stage of the Tri-Wizard Tournament). There was something else too…what was it…that’s right…the whole subplot about elf liberation. Yes it’s a subplot that I don’t mind not having, but it serves a good dramatic purpose by highlighting the Harry-and-Ron-not-talking and then Hermione-and-Ron-not-talking drama of the story. Not to mention it’s always fun to have a drunken elf on stage…they’re hilarious! On the whole, as the film adaptations continue, I sense that there will be more and more characters and subplots removed to make room for the primary drama. Now having read the books first, I’m going to whine about it, but for people who will never read the books, they’re getting what they need. I’m just not getting what I want, so I’ll just have to pout in silence.

Other than that, the film is an incredible experience. Totally captures the overall drama and sweeping changes that are plaguing Harry’s life as we know it. It’s so much fun to experience the book in such a visceral way. But more than anything, I appreciate more and more the visual interpretation of J.K. Rowling’s universe that Warner Bros is embarking on. It completely corrects what’s been in my head…in a good way of course. For instance, it is wonderful for me to be able to put a human face to Lord Voldemort now. Before I always viewed him as Emperor Zurg from the Toy Story films. Now he is a very human and very snake-like enemy…and it’s just fantastic to watch Ralph Fiennes portray him…he’s just fantastic. But above all, my absolute favorite moment of the movie was when Mad Eye Moody “punishes” Draco Malfoy. I also sense that moments of genuine comedy like this will be fewer and fewer as the movies progress, and I mourn the passing of these natural moments of catharsis.